Risk Factors for End-stage Renal Disease (ESRD)

A risk factor is something that increases your likelihood of getting a disease or condition.

It is possible to develop ESRD with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of developing ESRD. If you have a number of risk factors, ask your doctor what you can do to reduce your risk.

Risk factors for ESRD include the following:

Age—Risk of ESRD increases with age.

Gender—Men are more likely than women to develop ESRD.

Race—African-Americans have higher rates of ESRD than people of other races.

Diabetes—Diabetes is the biggest risk factor for developing ESRD. One-third of the people who develop ESRD have diabetes.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

What I need to know about kidney failure and how it's treated. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at:
http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/kidney-disease/kidney-failure-choosing-a-treatment-thats-right-for-you/Pages/ez.aspx.
Updated September 2013. Accessed November 17, 2016.